Residency split might affect Beltrante's mayoral run

Though he spends just half his time in York City, Joe Beltrante said he believes he is eligible to serve as mayor.

The 32-year-old Democrat owns a home on South Queen Street that he has claimed as his primary residence on federal tax returns for the past two years. But, he said, he spends about half his time at his family's home in Manchester Township.

Beltrante said he originally purchased the South Queen Street home with the intention of renting it out. But, he said, he began living there part time after failing to find a tenant. Beltrante said he worried a vacant house would be a target for vandals.

"I don't have any other choice," he said.

Beltrante said the experience of living in the neighborhood has opened his eyes to the issues of the city.

According to state law, mayoral candidates must be at least 21 years old, "shall have been a resident of the city throughout one year immediately preceding his election and shall reside in the city throughout his term of service."

"I meet the criteria," Beltrante said. "No one would ever have any standing to challenge that."